viernes, 9 de enero de 2009

Voluntariado: Australia!

Hi all,

I am looking for two volunteers to help me with field work for my PhD project. The assistants are needed 1 May to 31 July. We investigate genetic, social, and ecological factors influencing behavioural variation in bottlenose dolphins.

The focus lies on the "sponging behaviour" a foraging technique where dolphins use marine sponges as tools. To do so we conduct boat surveys where we record behaviour, take photos for photo ID, and collect biopsy samples for genetic analysis.

The field site is located in Useless Loop, Shark Bay, Western Australia. Useless Loop is a remotely located closed mining community with restricted access. Due to its remoteness it will not be possible to leave the site during the field season.

If you are interested we expect you to:

- have good English communication skills,

- to be willing to get up early,

- to work long hours indoors (data processing) and outdoors (boat surveys),

- and to be able to get on well with others in a small team.

A background in biology, a strong interest of cetaceans, and prior experience in boat based surveys and Photo ID are essential. We offer training in survey work and Photo ID and provide food and accommodation.

Unfortunately, we are not able to pay for travel (to Denham, Shark Bay) and other expenses. To apply, please send your CV, a covering letter, contact details of two references to useless.loop.dolphins@gmail.com.